How Green Is Your Snow Shovel?

With winter coming to an end, it's time to think about recycling old snow shovels. But is it possible to recycle plastic snow shovels? Snow shovels come in various materials, including metal and plastic. Metal snow shovels are heavier and more durable than plastic ones, but they can be challenging to manoeuvre due to the snow sticking to them. On the other hand, plastic snow shovels are lightweight and flexible, making them easier to use, especially for those with back problems. While plastic snow shovels are convenient for snow removal, the question remains: can they be recycled when they're no longer needed?

Metal snow shovels can be recycled at scrap yards

When the cold weather hits, recycling is probably the last thing on your mind. However, the planet needs saving all year round, and there are plenty of opportunities to recycle old winter items. Metal snow shovels can be recycled at scrap yards, and this process has multiple benefits.

Firstly, recycling scrap metal can help reduce the need for mining, which has devastating effects on the environment. Mining releases toxic compounds, radioactive rocks, metallic dust, and asbestos-like minerals into the air and water, and the harsh environmental impacts can continue for decades after the mining activity has ceased.

Secondly, recycling metal can be a great way to make some extra money. The US scrap metal recycling market is worth $30.1 billion and is expected to grow by 8.3% in 2022, so selling scrap metal is a good way to earn some cash. The price of scrap metal varies depending on the type, with non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminum being worth more than ferrous metals like steel and iron.

To recycle your metal snow shovel, you can start by checking your local recycling policies and seeing if there are any scrap yards in your area that accept metal items. Some cities will pick up scrap metal on a schedule, and some areas offer exchange programs or charge a small fee for recycling large metal items. You can also get creative and upcycle your old shovel into something new, like a lawn ornament.

If you're unable to find a scrap yard that accepts metal snow shovels, you could consider donating your shovel to a local community project or charity. Many organizations are always looking for donations of useful items, and your shovel could be put to good use by someone else.

Plastic snow shovels are lightweight and manoeuvrable

While metal snow shovels are generally more prevalent than plastic ones, the latter has its own set of advantages. Plastic snow shovels are lightweight and highly manoeuvrable, making them a good option for those with back problems. The type of plastic used in the blade's design is typically polyethylene plastic, which offers superior strength and durability. This flexibility allows for some manoeuvrability even after the blade has been buried into a snowdrift.

However, plastic snow shovels do have some drawbacks. In extremely cold temperatures, the plastic blade can become brittle and crack or snap. They are also less suitable for gravel driveways and may not be as durable as metal shovels over time.

Despite these limitations, plastic snow shovels remain a popular choice due to their lightweight and agile nature. They are particularly advantageous for those who need to clear snow from hard-to-reach areas or who have mobility issues and find metal shovels too heavy.

When it comes to recycling plastic snow shovels, there is limited information available. While some sources mention recycling winter items, they primarily focus on recycling metal components, such as scrap metal shovels or snow blowers. However, it is worth noting that plastic snow shovels can be made from recycled plastic themselves, indicating that the material can be recycled in some capacity.

Overall, plastic snow shovels offer a lightweight and manoeuvrable alternative to metal shovels, making them a preferred choice for individuals seeking ease of use and flexibility during the snowy season.

Snow tends to stick to metal shovels

Another way to prevent snow from sticking to a metal shovel is to use a non-stick cooking spray or household oil-based lubricant such as WD-40. These products create a barrier between the snow and the shovel blade, making it easier for the snow to slide off. You can also try using kitchen grease, such as Crisco or bacon grease, which will stick to the surface better and provide longer-lasting protection against snow buildup.

Additionally, you can try waxing your metal shovel, similar to how you would wax a pair of skis or a snowboard. Car wax or paste wax can be effective in creating a smooth surface that snow will slide off easily. Alternatively, you can use an old candle to rub a waxy coating onto the shovel blade. This creates a non-stick surface that prevents snow from sticking and makes shovelling more efficient.

Storing your shovel properly can also help reduce snow buildup. Keeping your shovel in a garage or shed will help maintain a colder temperature, reducing the likelihood of snow sticking. Additionally, wiping down the shovel after each use will keep the blade clean and in good condition, further preventing snow from adhering to the surface.

Plastic shovels can crack in freezing temperatures

Plastic snow shovels are made from polyethylene plastic, which offers superior strength and durability. They are lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, making them ideal for those with back problems. Snow also slides off a plastic shovel more easily than a metal one. However, a significant drawback is that in freezing temperatures, plastic snow shovels can crack or snap in two.

Plastic snow shovels are not as strong or durable as metal ones, and they may not be suitable for all conditions. For instance, if you encounter hard ice under fresh snow, a metal shovel is necessary. Metal shovels are also more prevalent in areas where snow is common, as they stand up to the cold well.

That said, metal shovels are much heavier than plastic ones, which can be a drawback if weight is a concern. Steel shovels, in particular, can be quite heavy, and aluminium shovels may be preferable, despite their edges being more prone to bending if you strike something hard.

If you're looking for a shovel that can handle a variety of conditions, a combination shovel might be a good choice. These shovels have a metal edge for durability and a lightweight plastic body for easy manoeuvrability.

When it comes to recycling old plastic snow shovels, it's important to check with your local recycling policies. Some areas may accept scrap plastic, and you can also get creative by upcycling old shovels into art projects or lawn ornaments.

Snowblowers can be recycled at places like Cohen

If you're looking to recycle a snowblower, there are several options available to you. Firstly, check with your local recycling policies and centers to see what is accepted. Some local recycling centers may accept old snow blowers, as they contain valuable metals that can be recycled and repurposed. These centers will dismantle the equipment to extract and reuse the materials, especially metals.

Additionally, you can contact local scrap yards or recycling services that deal with outdoor power equipment. Before doing so, ensure all fluids are drained and batteries removed, as these may require special handling. Some manufacturers of snow blowers also offer take-back programs where they accept old machines for recycling or disposal at no cost. Check with your snow blower's manufacturer to see if they offer any such programs.

If your snow blower is still functional, you could also consider donating it to organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStores, which accept snow blowers and use the proceeds from sold items to fund their projects. Alternatively, you could sell your snow blower directly to consumers through online platforms such as Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace, or trade it in at local stores specializing in outdoor equipment.

Overall, recycling your snowblower is a great way to benefit the environment and your community while also potentially gaining some financial benefits. Places like Cohen that accept various items for recycling will likely be able to assist you with your snowblower.

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